The Washington, D.C. City Council is moving to legalize same-sex marriage, voting 4 to 1 bring legislation to a full council vote.

However, the council is expected to add protections for churches and religious leaders who do not want to participate in gay weddings and receptions.

"It was just clear, as a result of the testimony and as a result of the result of the public process, there were some fixes that needed to be made," said Council member Phil Mendelson (D-At large), chairman of the Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary.

The Washington Post reported council members are crafting a religious exemption clause for the final bill.

Already 10 of 13 council members are supporting the legislation. A vote is expected before Christmas.